Friday, August 21st, 2015

Effective November 27th, 2014, the Indian government launched a visa-on-arrival (ETA visa) program,

which allows citizens of 43 countries to apply for an ETA (electronic travel authority) online. The term

‘Visa on Arrival’ is used by the Indian government, but in fact this does require the ETA to be processed in

advance of departure.  Travelers with an ETA will need to submit biometric information upon arrival at

designated ports of entry, and have the visa stamped at this time.  The ETA will allow for a single entry

visit up to 30 days.  It is possible to apply for an Indian ETA twice within a year.  Business travelers or

frequent visitors to India are still recommended to apply for the traditional Indian visa, which can be issued

for multiple entries and longer duration of stay, and are typically valid for a much longer period of time.